What makes you build a system around an amplifier?

Hello Eric,
I use the Coincident Frankenstein MK II 300b SET mono blocks, BTW my system is posted on this site. My amplifier progression was Symphonic Line (transistor), to tube push pull class A/B X 2 different amps. I bought the Frankenstein out of curiosity to compare to my excellent 100 watt PP amplifier (Bella Extreme 100, V-Cap version). Speakers are  94 dB sensitivity and 14 ohm nominal load Coincident Total Eclipse II.

This speaker was really good with the 100 watt amplifier. On the very first listen straight out of the shipping box I realized that the 8 watt Frankenstein was superior sounding. No 2nd guessing required, better tonality, timbre, nuance, music ebb and flow. Most immediately apparent was more emotional involvement and communication. Realism was at a different level, just plain more.

The 100 watt PP has superior bass weight and impact, that’s it (and the SET bass is quite good). I went from a "very " good amplifier to sublime as presented by the Frankenstein. It’s more open, transparent and better at resolving the micro details and subtleties. It’s even more 3 dimensional than the very good PP which had bettered the Symphonic Line amplifier in this area.

No other audio anything has provided as much impact in my home. It is the heart and soul of my system. Needless to say YMMV.
Charles

erik_squires:

Thanks for the rig detail.

Funny...

Been to your website, but didn't realize it was you.

DeKay

I think I have a situation that fits your post.  Several years ago there was an ad here on A'gon selling a JAS Array 2.1 amplifier.  Trades were also considered and although I really liked my Monarchy SE-160 monoblocks, I was eager to try an all tube amp (I'd had a few hybrids in the past including the Monarchy amps).  The JAS could be run as an integrated with a passive line stage or, with the flip of a switch, could be ran as a stereo amp.  Tube compliment included a pair of 805 transmitting tubes, 300B's,  and a quad of 6DJ8's and the amp runs in SET. 

So a trade was made and I installed the JAS in place of the Monarchy amps driven directly by a Theta Miles (bypassing the passive linestage ).  The speakers were Von Schweikert VR-4 Gen II.   I'd upgraded the tubes in the Monarchy amps to Ediswans while the JAS was filled with stock Shuguangs and and a quad of JJ's or EH junk.  And you know what, the JAS absolutely destroyed the Monarchy's .  The JAS was soooo transparent, details were so much more apparent, the soundstage not only had excellent lateral placing and front-to-back depth, but each sound had a very palpable 3 dimensional quality itself.  It was a reach out and touch the performers moment and it was the first time I'd heard that even considering the many auditions at high end (big buck) stores with systems ever beyond my means. 

I could go on and on but I'll try to keep it short(ish) and say that I found the best way to use this amp is with a custom pair of speakers that are similar in design to Legacy Focus using Eton drivers up top and Peerless woofers below.  I biamp the speakers using the tubes up top and solid state below (everything from a Consonance Calaf to Face Audio pro amps).  I am a bachelor with my own house and have accumulated enough equipment to set up at least 4 good systems (not because I am well heeled but have been collecting for years and can't resist a good opportunity).  The JAS is what I listen to when I want to hear all the detail and immerse myself in that sort of critical listening with a limited SPL.  I have a Cambridge Audio 840W/851C VMPS system for rocking out (and to keep from burning through expensive old stock tubes).    I'm sure there are many better amplifier options out (and ones that weigh less than a hundred pounds and don't run so insanely hot) and they are probably within my reach if I were willing to consolidate systems, but I like being able to listen to multiple dissimilar systems and embracing their different qualities.  Having said that, I really can't imagine not having a good SET amp around.  It connects me to the music like no others have.

A relatively low powered single ended amp, if it sounds great, will force you to drop whatever your doing, sell all of your unnecessary belongings, and spend all of your time searching for the best sounding high efficiency speakers…this results in a great sounding system, albeit with a ruined life. Worth it.

I bought a Pass amp and knew I could never give it up.